Bathroom renovations can make a huge improvement in the style and function of your home. Master bathrooms, powder rooms and guest spaces that are starting to feel outdated can all benefit from new flooring.
Which flooring is right for your bathroom remodel? Choose your flooring wisely by utilizing this guide from DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen. We can also walk you through the design phase and help you select exceptional materials for your remodel.
Porcelain & Ceramic Tile Flooring
Porcelain and ceramic tile are very popular choices for bathroom flooring. In fact, they’re often used interchangeably. However, there are slight differences between porcelain and ceramic that could matter to you.
Porcelain tile:
• Durable, very hard material. Cracks or damaged spots are usually nearly invisible because coloring runs through the tile.
• Resists water very well. Porcelain tile is almost non-porous, making it an ideal option for bathroom flooring.
• More expensive than ceramic tile, but will likely last longer in a high-traffic area.
• More expensive to install because it’s harder to cut.
Ceramic tile:
• Durable, very hard material. Chips and cracks may be more visible than with porcelain tile.
• Resists water, but not as well as ceramic. Standing water can be a problem for ceramic tile, which is why it is never used outside.
• More cost-effective than porcelain tile, but it may not last as long in high-traffic bathrooms.
• Easier to cut and faster to install because it is a softer material.
Engineered Wood & Natural Hardwood
Wood has long been the standard for beautiful flooring in fine homes. Engineered hardwood and natural hardwood can both be used in bathrooms, but there are significant differences between the two.
Engineered wood:
• Durable, extra-hard and sealed material. Ideal for bathrooms where the look of wood is preferred.
• Resists water well. Some versions are non-porous.
• Comes in many colors and variations, some resembling real hardwood, others more unique.
• More cost-effective than natural hardwood to install. May not last as long as natural hardwood.
Natural hardwood:
• Durable, easy to repair. Sanding and staining of solid hardwood allow floors to be refinished multiple times over many years.
• Sealed hardwood resists water, but standing water will cause warping or mold issues over time.
• Preferred for adult spaces or low-use bathrooms since water damage is a concern.
• Often expensive. Initial installation costs are high, but solid hardwood may last as long as your home!
Resilient Flooring
Resilient flooring is any type of flooring that’s elastic or made with expandable fibers. Generally, resilient flooring in a bathroom means vinyl tile similar to linoleum. However, today’s resilient flooring comes in many looks, some that mimic porcelain tile, natural stone and hardwood.
• Very durable. Unlikely to chip or crack when new. Most resilient flooring cannot be repaired, but replacement tiles are often cost-effective.
• Resists small amounts of water well and is easy to clean. Standing water can cause this material to buckle or warp over time.
• Highly cost-effective. Resilient flooring is relatively easy to install and manufacturing costs tend to be low. A smart choice if you’re on a tight budget.
Get Help From Expert Designers
Call DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Wilmington at (910) 408-4848 or submit our online form to start a conversation! Our bathroom remodel experts are happy to talk to you about your flooring options. We can also schedule a meeting to see your space and make smart recommendations based on our years of professional experience.
